PAM

News

Qatari Operator Targets 5G Lead to Sustain Data Edge

Revenue from data and digital services are soon expected to overtake those from voice and SMS, making it imperative to take a lead in 5G services, according to Ooredoo.“Years ago, we recognised that data and digital services were the future – we are now reaching the point where these services will surpass the revenue that the group generates from voice and SMS. To sustain this growth, we will continue to build our global network and take a lead in 5G services,” Ooredoo chairman Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani told shareholders yesterday at the annual general assembly.The company’s growth in data and business services underlines the important strategic shift Ooredoo is making, he said, adding Ooredoo has built strong networks and an appealing range of digital products and services that will serve as the foundation for its next stage of growth and digital transformation. Data revenue stood at QR15.3bn in 2017, up 16% from QR13.1bn in 2016, and group revenue from business services was QR5.5bn.The general assembly approved company’s corporate governance report and financial statements for 2017 as well as the 35% cash dividend.The meeting also saw the reconstitution of board with Sheikh Abdulla continuing to be chairman, along with other members HE the Finance Minister Ali Sherif al-Emadi; Mohamed bin Eissa al-Mohannadi; Dr Nasser Mohamed Marafih; Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo; Nasser Rashid al-Humaidi; Ibrahim Abdullah al-Mahmoud; QNB represented by Ali Ahmed al-Kuwari; General Retirement and Social Insurance Authority, represented by Turki Mohamed al-Khater; and Ali Bin Ghanim al-Thani group, represented by Sheikh Ali bin Ghanim al-Thani.